Providing reliable electricity access is still a major
challenge in many regions of the Global South. This study
discusses indicators characterizing grid power supply and
provides various measures next to the electricity access rate
to show the linkages between electricity access pathways
for doing business. The results of the analysis, done for six
selected countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia, indicate
that a grid connection, often perceived as cheaper, is
characterized by its own challenges. These challenges
should also be considered and evaluated when assessing
different electrification strategies. The quality of grid
supply in terms of length and frequency of power outage,
T&D losses, and connection charges are assessed. A trend
towards decentralized independent power generation can be
observed as one of the consequences.